In support of National Reconciliation Week, Federal Member for Hunter, Joel Fitzgibbon, gave prominence to the University of Newcastle’s outstanding track record in Indigenous education and research in a speech in the Parliament yesterday.

“The University of Newcastle is a national leader in reconciliation, not only through the development of our own Reconciliation Action Plan but also through supporting industry and business in the Hunter and Central Coast regions to develop their own Reconciliation Action Plans,” said Joel Fitzgibbon.

The University’s achievements in reconciliation are leading the country. A total of 4.6 per cent of its students are Indigenous, the highest percentage of any university in the country. A total of 2.4 per cent of its staff are Indigenous, the highest percentage of any university in Australia. Newcastle has graduated more than 110 Indigenous medical students, the highest number in the country, and it has graduated more Indigenous teachers than any other university in Australia.

“In March this year, the University launched its Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education and Research Framework. It is one of the first universities in Australia to roll out a comprehensive Cultural Capability Framework that promotes Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledges, perspectives, and communications.”

“Since 1983, the Wollotuka Institute has operated as a support centre for Indigenous students studying at the University of Newcastle.”

“I congratulate the University Council, Vice-Chancellor Alex Zelinsky, Pro Vice-Chancellor – Indigenous Strategy and Leadership, Nathan Townley, and the whole University on their significant work and commitment to our First Nations Peoples,” said Joel Fitzgibbon.

For a copy of the Hansard, click here.